Information for charities

Many third sector organisations use data and statistics for a wide range of purposes, including measuring impact and outcomes. However, some charities lack people with the appropriate skills and resources for statistical analysis, which could help with making better decisions and informing policy.

Statisticians for Society was introduced for this purpose; to offer the time and skills of statisticians at no cost. We are inviting charities to approach us and we will match their needs with our volunteer statisticians.

Selection criteria

To be eligible for the scheme, an organisation

Must be a registered charity

Must be based in the UK

Must have an annual turnover of/less than £1 million

If an organisation is outside the main criteria but wishes to be considered for the scheme, we would like to hear from you. If you are a social purpose organisation that does not meet the selection criteria please contact Amaka Nwagbara to discuss your potential project.

As part of Statisticians for Society, the Society is working in partnership with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) to support statisticians interested in delivering statistical education in AIMS centres in Africa.

What’s the process?

When a third sector organisation registers for support, we will contact the charity to determine whether it meets the criteria for pro bono support. If successful, we will arrange a phone call with a member of our pro bono scoping committee, who will determine what form of support and approach is needed. The committee member will produce a project plan which we will send to the charity for approval.

After this, we will send round a call for participation to volunteers on our database, who can then decide if they wish to get involved. We will match the charity with a volunteer statistician, or team of statisticians, with the expertise for the project. The statistician will organise a meeting with the charity to further discuss the project plan. Following the meeting, the volunteer statistician will write a detailed project proposal, including an agreed timeline, which will be signed by both parties.

Once the project is complete, we will have an independent statistician review the work that has been done. The charity and volunteer statistician will be contacted by the Society to discuss sharing their experience and providing feedback.

Apply for pro bono support

If your charity would benefit from the skills of a statistician, please register for pro bono support by completing an enquiry form